Safe from Harm: NGO/FBO Implementation of a Parent-Youth IPC Program

Background: In Zimbabwe, over half of new HIV infections occur among youth and nearly one-third of youth age 15-19 are sexually active. Formative research across 8 African countries demonstrated that the existence and quality of parent/adolescent communication influenced youth's sexual decision making. Population Services International (PSI) developed an interpersonal communication (IPC) program, Safe from Harm, to promote delayed sexual debut and sexual risk reduction among youth (age 13-19) by improving parent-adolescent communication.

Design/Methods: Safe from Harm is a five-session IPC program that utilizes participatory methods to give parents and youth the knowledge, communication, and life skills necessary to be informed about sexual health and improve the quality of communication among parents and their adolescents. As a majority of the population in Zimbabwe is affiliated with church groups, faith-based organizations (FBOs) have a wide reach and influence across the country. The NGO/FBO partnership ensures broader program reach among key target groups in Zimbabwe, and harnessed on FBO interest in collaboration. In recognition of this societal church influence, PSI/Zimbabwe implemented the program in collaboration with pastors and religious leaders. Local PSI staff worked with FBO representatives to customize program manuals with scripture and trained religious leaders as program facilitators. PSI currently provides technical and research support to implementing congregations across a range of different church denominations.

Results/Outcomes: Since program launch in September 2005, 140 religious leaders have been trained and 1568 parents and 1633 adolescents have participated. Research revealed an overwhelmingly positive response to both the program and the use of religious leaders as program facilitators. Findings suggest that the program enhanced mutual respect between parents and adolescents and broke down communication barriers by creating enabling environments for discussion of HIV, sex and related health issues. Youth reported being empowered by the program with an increased ability to resist peer and social pressures.

Recommendations: Close NGO-FBO collaborations should be used to conduct community-based programs, especially for abstinence related messages. This linkage capitalizes on existing FBO structures by utilizing church congregations for program implementation and ensuring common messages of delayed debut. Scale up of the Safe from Harm program should and will continue in church communities in Zimbabwe.